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Free warm packs are available for elderly, disabled and vulnerable residents across the borough

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by Natalie Glanvill, Reporter, covering Chingford, Highams Park and Woodford. Call me on 07795 476 625

A charity is helping elderly and disabled people during cold weather by giving out free 'warm packs'.

The 100 year old charity Papworth Trust has launched an initiative in Waltham Forest to prevent winter-related deaths.

The Trust's Home Solution Agency, based in Billet Road, Walthamstow, offers advice and support for people who want to repair, improve or adapt their homes.

This winter they have also been giving out free packs to people aged over 65, anyone with a disability, or vulnerable people unable to heat their homes.

Packs include a thermos flask, blanket, packets of soup, a home thermometer, a hot water bottle and thermal socks.

Since November, 23 packs have been given out across the borough and the agency has 60 remaining.

The agency's customer services manager, Paula Heatley, 31, said: "With a cold winter forecast and temperatures due to plummet, it is vital that vulnerable local residents make the most of free support measures and supplies to help them keep warm and stay well this winter.

"We have supplies on hand to help those severely at risk, including blankets, thermal mugs and socks and hot water bottles.

"If anybody living in the Waltham Forest area is concerned about staying warm this winter, we are urging them to get in touch."

According to a report by Public Health England, the winter of 2012 and 2013 saw the largest number of winter-related deaths in England since 2008/09.